Celtic Cross vs. Jerusalem Cross: Meanings, History & How to Wear Each (Cufflinks, Tie Bars & Lapel Pins)
Share
Estimated read: 6–7 minutes
Why these crosses matter
Cross designs aren’t just decoration—they carry stories. Two of the most requested styles in men’s accessories are the Celtic Cross and the Jerusalem Cross. Here’s what each symbol means, when to wear it, and how to style it with suits, shirts, and ties.
The Celtic Cross: tradition with a circle of eternity
What it is: A Latin cross with a ring around the intersection.
Meaning highlights: Faith rooted in Celtic heritage, unity, eternity, and learning. The circle is often interpreted as eternity or the sun, symbolizing life and light.
Great occasions: Baptisms, confirmations, Irish/Scottish family events, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, and heritage weddings.
How to wear (quick guide):
-
Cufflinks: Pair with crisp white or light blue French cuffs. Silver-tone works with navy/charcoal suits; gold-tone suits black or deep green.
-
Tie bar: Place between the 3rd and 4th shirt buttons; keep width ≤ ¾ of tie width.
-
Lapel pin: Left lapel, through the buttonhole or slightly above it. Works beautifully on tweed or textured jackets.
Outfit combo ideas:
-
Navy suit + white shirt + silver Celtic Cross cufflinks + matte tie bar.
-
Charcoal suit + deep green tie + gold Celtic Cross lapel pin for heritage events.
The Jerusalem Cross: fivefold symbol of faith
What it is: One large cross potent with four smaller Greek crosses in each quadrant.
Meaning highlights: The spread of the Gospel to the four corners of the world; the five wounds of Christ; unity of faith.
Great occasions: Pilgrimages, confirmations, ordinations, Easter/Christmas services, and gifts for clergy or missionaries.
How to wear (quick guide):
-
Cufflinks: Balanced, geometric look pairs well with solid ties and subtle shirt patterns (micro-checks or herringbone).
-
Tie bar: Clean, polished finishes (high-shine silver/gold) emphasize the geometry.
-
Lapel pin: Understated on formal blazers; sharp accent for church holidays.
Outfit combo ideas:
-
Black suit + French cuff shirt + gold Jerusalem Cross cufflinks for formal services.
-
Mid-grey suit + burgundy tie + silver Jerusalem Cross lapel pin for a refined weekday look.
Which one should you choose?
-
Heritage & knots/textures lover? Go Celtic Cross.
-
Symmetry & minimal geometry? Go Jerusalem Cross.
-
Gold or silver?
-
Gold-tone reads warmer and more formal (great at night).
-
Silver-tone is versatile for daily wear and modern suits.
-
Sizing & finish tips
-
Cufflinks: 14–20 mm faces sit proportionately on most cuffs.
-
Tie bars: 1.5–2.25 in for narrow/standard ties; a hair shorter than tie width looks best.
-
Pins: Smaller (15–20 mm) for business; slightly larger for jackets with texture (tweed).
Gift guide (quick picks)
-
For confirmations & baptisms: Simple silver Celtic Cross cufflinks—timeless, easy to match.
-
For clergy & missionaries: Gold Jerusalem Cross lapel pin—classic, dignified.
-
For weddings: Match the metal to the wedding bands; consider Celtic Cross tie bars for groomsmen with Irish/Scottish roots.
-
For everyday faith: Minimal silver Jerusalem Cross pin for a subtle nod.
Care & storage
Wipe with a soft cloth after wear, store dry, and keep each piece separate to prevent scratches. Avoid cologne or hair product spray directly on metal or enamel.
Shop the look
Ready to wear your story? Explore our Cross Collection